We are ready to continue investing and are interested in traditional financing but want to learn more about Subject To and private equity and other creative financing methods. 

The idea is spreading, and could spread to some other spots here that have traditionally been STR friendly. 

Purchase price: $8,000 Cash invested: $20,000 In 2013, I decided to put much of what I had learned from books into action by purchasing a two-bedroom home—not as a traditional investment property, but as a home for my mother.

Traditional mortgage from a big bank, 10% down payment What was the outcome?

It takes time but worth it.How do you plan to finance your first property—are you looking at traditional loans, or have you considered other options like house hacking?

I hear you, I think the price of turn key STRs are almost impossible to make money on in the traditional markets. 

You may be able to bypass some of those hurtles based on your country of origin/where you have friends and family but in most cases investing in the U.S. will be way easier and will yield a better ROI. 

.- The 203(k) will allow you to bid on properties that need repairs that won't qualify for a traditional mortgage => less competition => better purchase price.You will need to find a great local contractor you can trust to supply the required bids to qualify for the 203(k).- After closing, you can do some of the work yourself to save money, but the program doesn't allow you to pay yourself.You will want to buy a Class B property, maybe Class C+, in an area that seems to be improving.

In a traditional MLS sale, there are realtor fees, there can be concessions, there can be work orders and delays. 

Is there a reason why you are set on a traditional duplex?